Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 30-32 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 120
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 15mg
Why Make This Christmas Cut-Out Shortbread Cookies
Christmas Cut-Out Shortbread Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday festivities. With their buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. They make the perfect holiday treat to share with family and friends, and decorating them with colorful sprinkles adds a fun, festive touch. Plus, these cookies are simple to make, allowing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones while baking together.
How to Make Christmas Cut-Out Shortbread Cookies
Making Christmas Cut-Out Shortbread Cookies is a straightforward process that requires minimal ingredients. You’ll notice how easy it is to whip up this buttery dough and shape it into festive designs. Follow this simple guide to create the perfect shortbread cookies that will be the highlight of your holiday cookie platter!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Sprinkles or colored sugar (for decoration)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This warm setting ensures your cookies bake evenly and become deliciously golden.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies a light texture.
Step 3: Combining
Stir in the vanilla extract next, creating a rich, aromatic flavor that enhances the cookie’s taste. Gradually blend in the flour and salt until the mixture forms a soft dough. Don’t overmix; just combine until everything is nicely incorporated.
Step 4: Shaping
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Using cookie cutters, cut out your desired shapes and place them on ungreased baking sheets. If you want to add a festive flair, decorate them with sprinkles or colored sugar at this point.
Step 5: Baking
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; you want them to maintain that soft, buttery texture.
Step 6: Cooling
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This helps them firm up while retaining a soft center.
How to Serve Christmas Cut-Out Shortbread Cookies
These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings! Serve them on a decorative platter alongside a cup of hot cocoa or a pot of tea. They also make lovely gifts when packaged in festive tins or boxes, making them a charming surprise for neighbors and friends alike.
How to Store Christmas Cut-Out Shortbread Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they will last for up to three months. Just be sure to let them thaw completely before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cut-Out Shortbread Cookies
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve the best creaming effect.
- Experiment with various cookie cutter shapes to make your cookies even more festive.
- For a twist on flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon zest or almond extract for a unique touch.
- If your dough feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling out to help it hold its shape better.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped Version: After baking, dip the cookie edges in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint or nuts.
- Lemon Shortbread: Add lemon zest and a touch of lemon juice for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the dough for an added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can, but be mindful to reduce or skip adding extra salt in the recipe. -
What if I don’t have cookie cutters?
No worries! You can use a knife to cut the dough into squares or rectangles, or use the rim of a glass for round cookies. -
How can I make the cookies softer?
To achieve a softer cookie, avoid overbaking. Pull them out of the oven while they’re still slightly soft in the center. -
Can I add toppings before baking?
Absolutely! Adding sprinkles or colored sugar before baking will give you a beautiful, festive look. -
What’s the best way to roll out the dough?
Dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent the dough from sticking, and roll it out gradually until it’s even.
Conclusion
Christmas Cut-Out Shortbread Cookies are a holiday staple that brings joy to any gathering. Their buttery flavor and inviting texture will charm your family and friends, while their easy preparation allows you to focus on making beautiful memories together. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—get your loved ones involved, and whip up a batch of these delightful cookies that will undoubtedly spread holiday cheer!
